Wonder Walkers

Walk Info

Walk Details

Symonds Street Cemetery

Location

Corner of Karangahape Road and Symonds Street.

Description

Step away from the conventional and explore one if Auckland's most unusual and historic reserves. As the first public cemetery in the early days of Auckland City, Symonds St Cemetery is the oldest cemetery in Auckland, dating back to 1842 but was only used for a short period of time – between 1842 and 1886, representing a single era in Auckland's history.There is much to see of historic interest, including the grave of Governor Hobson. There is a fine collection of mature trees, and the area is a rare example of highly diverse early forest in the city. Walkways allow access to the area.

Set in a deciduous woodland, the cemetery has many faces – eerie and mysterious in winter, and lush and alluring in summer, counterbalanced by a fine example of indigenous coastal forest nestled into the floor of Grafton Gully.

Enjoy the remarkable sculptures and tombs, read some of Auckland interesting history as this makes a visit to the five denominational burial grounds a must. A well-formed network of all weather paths runs through the cemetery.